AGE was no barrier when it came to having fun in the sun as teenagers mixed with nonagenarians for an annual ‘Sunshine Party’.

Sixth formers at Polam Hall School, Darlington, hosted the Sunshine Party for friends of the Town Mission today (Wednesday, July 1) on what proved one of the hottest days of the year so far.

More than 40 octogenarians and older, accompanied by volunteer drivers, braved hot temperatures followed by dramatic thunder and lightening to attend an afternoon of tea, music and song held at the school.

Year 12 students, led by Head Girl Kemer Aydin served homemade cakes and sandwiches in the school dining hall, followed by a packed programme of musical performances from pupils across all year groups.

Students had worked together for several weeks to pull off the event, taking responsibility for baking their own cup cakes, sourcing raffle prizes and organising live entertainment.

Town Missioner, Sue Case, said: “Many of our Friends live alone and have little contact with the outside world so experiences like this are a real lifesaver.

Hilary Jackson, 97, the retired Vicar of Heighington, and his wife Joyce, 94, a retired lecturer, said they had lost count of the number of Sunshine Parties they had attended at Polam over the years.

“We love to meet the young people and hear what’s happening in the School,” Mrs Jackson said.

Headmaster John Moreland said it was a part of the school’s ethos to maintain strong links with the local community.